Real Madrid Transfer Rumors: Los Blancos Eye Daniele De Rossi

Roma's Daniele De Rossi has played in Serie A since 2001, making 285 appearances and scoring 33 goals.

Photo: Reuters

With the January transfer session less than three months away, Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho reportedly has targeted Roma’s Daniele De Rossi, according to TalkSport.

Los Blancos have pressed on this season despite several injuries to their back line, and the versatile De Rossi can help in both the attack and defense.

The 29-year-old Italian international has played for the Serie A club since he started his senior career in 2001, and is seen as the heir apparent to lead the Italian national team. In 285 appearances for Roma, De Rossi has 33 goals.

Manchester City are also reportedly interested in De Rossi.

Madrid suffered a barrage of injuries during the last international break, with full-back Alvaro Arbeloa tweaking a hamstring, and defender Marcelo breaking a bone in his foot while training with Brazil. Marcelo's injury required surgery and he is not expected to return for the rest of the year.

Full-back Fabio Coentrao is also dealing with a groin injury, leaving Los Blancos even thinner in their back line, and Mourinho has apparently admired De Rossi since his days as Inter Milan’s manager.

Mourniho’s club lost their first Champion’s League match Wednesday to Borussia Dortmund, 2-1, with the defense conceding eight corner kicks and goalkeeper Iker Casillas forced to make five saves.

Real Madrid is currently fourth in La Liga, sitting eight points behind first place Barcelona.